What happened: ESPN published a breakdown of the field for MLB's next expansion teams. The piece keeps league expansion in focus without signaling a formal decision or timeline.

Why it matters: Expansion would reshape league geography, ownership economics and long-term scheduling. Until the process moves from candidate talk to league action, the story remains more about positioning than an imminent award.

What to watch: Watch for any shift from market speculation to concrete league steps such as a timetable, ownership vetting or formal expansion terms.